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LR post office to be named in McMath’s honor

Arkansas News Bureau

LITTLE ROCK — A post office in Arkansas’ capital city will be named in honor of former Gov. Sid McMath.

Legislation designating the Little Rock facility as the Sidney “Sid” Sanders McMath Post Office Building awaits President Barack Obama’s signature after passage Thursday in the Senate. The measure, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Tim Griffin, R-Little Rock, and supported by U.S. Sens. John Boozman, R-Ark., and Mark Pryor, D-Ark., passed the House a week earlier.

McMath served as a U.S. Marine during WWII, earning the Silver Star and Legion of Merit. From 1949 to 1953, McMath served as Arkansas’ 34th governor. Following his tenure, he served in the Marine Corps Reserve and rose to the rank of major general. McMath died in 2003 at the age of 91.

“Gov. McMath’s legacy is as profound as it is exemplary,” Griffin said, noting McMath’s military service as well as his efforts as governor to abolish the poll tax and uphold voting rights for all Americans.

“Sid McMath was a leader in Arkansas, paving the way for enhanced racial relations, education improvements, and infrastructure investments throughout our state,” Pryor said. “This post office designation will help honor Sid’s legacy and remind Arkansans of his many contributions to our state.”

Boozman called McMath “a hero in every sense of the word.”

“As one of the greatest generation, he went to war and came back to help build Arkansas through his tireless public service. This is a fitting honor and we are very proud of his memory and legacy,” Boozman said.